2025 Readers' Choice Awards: Best city

Winner: Paris

Why you love it…

Whether you call it the City of Lights or the City of Love, Paris is always a good idea. Of course, the Eiffel Tower is a must; laying your eyes on Mona at the Louvre, too. But it’s the tree-lined boulevards and sidewalk cafes, the buttery croissants, the artistic and literary history, the gentle walks along the Seine, the haute couture, the Belle Époque architecture and the Michelin-star dining that make Paris so enchanting.

A glimpse of the Louvre.

Hot tip…

Takeaway coffee is not common in Paris like it is here, so sit shoulder-to-shoulder with locals at a sidewalk cafe and soak up the moment with some people-watching.

Runners-up

London

History-rich London is a multicultural capital with a swathe of famous landmarks dotted along the River Thames, as well as a treasure trove of museums and cosy pubs where you can enjoy a pint with the locals.

Tokyo

We love this city where the future truly blends with the past, of ancient temples and stratospheric skyscrapers, centuries-old traditions and state-of-the-art technology, epic street food, quirky bars and tranquil onsens.

Rome

Few places compare to Rome when it comes to ancient history literally scattered across the city – the inimitable Colosseum, atmospheric Piazza Navona, the awe-inspiring Vatican.

New York City

The city that never sleeps is packed with endless things to do, from masterpiece-filled galleries and fabulous Broadway shows to a culturally diverse food scene.

For all the winners and runners-up, visit our 2025 Readers’ Choice hub.